Fi 3

ANSI/NEMA FI 3
CALENDERED ARAMID
PAPERS USED FOR
ELECTRICAL
INSULATION
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Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Provided by IHS under license with NEMA
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
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Approved as an American National Standard
ANSI Approval Date: May 10, 2004
NEMA Standard Publication FI 3-2004
Calendered Aramid Papers Used for Electrical Insulation

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Published by:
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

1300 North 17th Street
Rosslyn, VA 22209
www.nema.org
© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. All rights including translation into
other languages, reserved under the Universal Copyright Convention, the Berne Convention for the
Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, and the International and Pan American Copyright Conventions.

NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
The information in this publication was considered technically sound by the consensus of persons
engaged in the development and approval of the document at the time it was developed. Consensus
does not necessarily mean that there is unanimous agreement among every person participating in
the development of this document.
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards and guideline publications, of
which the document contained herein is one, are developed through a voluntary consensus
standards development process. This process brings together volunteers and/or seeks out the
views of persons who have an interest in the topic covered by this publication. While NEMA
administers the process and establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of
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the accuracy or completeness of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in
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NEMA disclaims liability for any personal injury, property, or other damages of any nature
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any information published herein, and disclaims and makes no warranty that the information in this
document will fulfill any of your particular purposes or needs. NEMA does not undertake to
guarantee the performance of any individual manufacturer or seller’s products or services by virtue
of this standard or guide.
In publishing and making this document available, NEMA is not undertaking to render professional
or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity, nor is NEMA undertaking to perform any
duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. Anyone using this document should rely on
his or her own independent judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent
professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances.
Information and other standards on the topic covered by this publication may be available from
other sources, which the user may wish to consult for additional views or information not covered
by this publication.
NEMA has no power, nor does it undertake to police or enforce compliance with the contents of
this document. NEMA does not certify, test, or inspect products, designs, or installations for safety
or health purposes. Any certification or other statement of compliance with any health or safety–
related information in this document shall not be attributable to NEMA and is solely the
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responsibility of the certifier or maker of the statement.

FI 3-2004
Page i
CONTENTS
Page
Foreword ................................................................................................................................... ii
Section 1 GENERAL
1.1 Scope ........................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Definition of Aramid Paper........................................................................................................ 1
1.3 References ............................................................................................................................... 1
1.3.1 Mandatory Standard ................................................................................................... 1
Section 2 TOLERANCES
2.1 Tolerances on Thickness of Aramid Papers ............................................................................ 3
2.2 Tolerance on Width of Aramid Paper Tapes............................................................................ 3
2.3 Tolerances for Dimensions of Narrow Aramid Paper Rolls..................................................... 3
2.4 Tolerances for Dimensions of Wide Aramid Paper Rolls ........................................................ 3
2.5 Tolerances for Dimensions of Aramid Paper Sheets .............................................................. 3
Section 3 CLASSIFICATION OF ARAMID PAPERS

3.1 Definitions of Defects................................................................................................................ 4
3.1.1 Defects Causing Reduced Insulation Strength .......................................................... 4
3.1.2 Holes ........................................................................................................................... 4
3.1.3 Fractures ..................................................................................................................... 4
3.1.4 Solid Tactile Defects ................................................................................................... 4
3.1.5 Hollow Tactile Defects (Blisters) ................................................................................ 4
3.1.6 Stains and Discolorations ........................................................................................... 4
3.1.7 Splices ......................................................................................................................... 5
3.2 Sampling for Testing................................................................................................................. 5
3.2.1 Samples from Rolls .................................................................................................... 5
3.3 Method of Calculation ............................................................................................................... 5
Section 4 METHODS OF MEASUREMENT

4.1 Methods of Measuring Thickness ............................................................................................ 6
4.1.1 Sheets ......................................................................................................................... 6
4.1.2 Tapes ........................................................................................................................... 6
4.2 Methods of Measuring Electric Strength .................................................................................. 6
4.2.1 Sheets and Tapes ....................................................................................................... 6
4.3 Method of Determining Moisture Content ................................................................................ 6
4.3.1 Purpose........................................................................................................................ 6
4.3.2 Apparatus..................................................................................................................... 7
4.3.3 Test Specimen............................................................................................................. 7
4.3.4 Procedure .................................................................................................................... 7
4.3.5 Report .......................................................................................................................... 7
4.4 Method of Testing Tensile Properties ...................................................................................... 7
4.4.1 Conditioning ................................................................................................................. 7
4.4.2 Sampling ...................................................................................................................... 7
4.4.3 Reporting...................................................................................................................... 7
Section 5 TYPES OF ARAMID PAPER................................................................................................... 8
Section 6 SPECIFICATIONS BY TYPE AND THICKNESS ................................................................... 9
Section 7 ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES-TYPE TESTS ........................................................................ 11
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© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

FI 3-2004
Page ii
Foreword
This publication is a new standard for calendered aramid papers used for electrical insulation. Standard
industry test methods are referenced herein, and the latest version of the appropriate standard should
always be used. This standard may not meet all industry needs and suggestions and comments for future
revisions are appreciated.
This document provides technical guidance similar to other NEMA standards and establishes minimum
properties in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or other commonly
accepted tests. Users and other interested parties are invited to comment on this standard and suggest
changes where they feel it does not meet their needs. Specifications on properties and characteristics not
covered herein should be negotiated between buyer and seller, and test methods cited in this document
may be used as the basis for those negotiations.
Metric tables for each of the constructions are included in this document. Where applicable, English units
are accompanied by SI equivalents.
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This Standards Publication was developed by the Flexible Insulation and Mica Section. Section approval of
the standard does not necessarily imply that all section members voted for its approval or participated in its
development. At the time it was approved, the Section was composed of the following members:
Bedford Materials Corp.—Bedford, PA

Dennison Manufacturing Company—Framingham, MA
EHV–Weidmann Industries, Inc.—St. Johnsbury, VT
E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Company, NOMEX® Products—Wilmington, DE
Essex Group, Inc. Macallen Mica—Newmarket, NH
Essex Group, Inc., U.S. Samica—Rutland, VT
Kirkwood Industries, Midwest Mica and Insulation—Cleveland, OH
Lydall, Inc., Manning Nonwovens Division—Troy, NY
Innovative Paper Technologies, LLC—Tilton, NH
VonRoll Isola/Insulating Materials, Inc.—Schenectady, NY
The Flexible Insulation and Mica Section of NEMA reviews these standards periodically for revisions
necessary to keep them up to date. Proposed revisions or comments should be submitted to:
Vice President, Technical Services Department

National Electrical Manufacturers Association
1300 North 17th Street, Suite 1847
Rosslyn, VA 22209

FI 3-2004
Page 1
Section 1
GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE
This Standards Publication is applicable to qualification and testing of calendered aramid papers in
thicknesses up to 30 mils (0.76 mm) for use as electrical insulation. Methods and properties applicable to
aramid pressboards, uncalendered aramid papers, and papers made of blends of aramid with other
materials are substantially different and are not considered in this standard. Blends of aramid and mica are
covered in NEMA Standard FI-1. For U.S. Government procurement purposes, this standard replaces
Military Standard MIL-I-24204A.
1.2 DEFINITION OF ARAMID PAPER
As defined in the U.S. Federal Register (Volume 38, No. 237, December 11, 1973), an aramid is “a long-
chain synthetic polyamide in which at least 85% of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic
rings.” Aramid polymers can be processed into various forms, including resin, fiber, film, paper, or
pressboard, but this standard applies only to a non-woven sheet made of 100% meta-aramid fibers, formed
on wet-process paper machines, and calendered between rolls at high temperatures and pressures. Aramid
paper covered by this standard is manufactured from a blend of two forms of fiber: (1) floc, which is short
fiber cut from continuous filaments of drawn (stretched) aramid fiber, and (2) fibrids, which are microscopic
particles of amorphous polymer. Up to 8% non-aramid additives are permitted, so long as such additives
have a thermal capability at least equal to meta-aramid fiber.
1.3 REFERENCES
1.3.1 Mandatory Standard
Aramid paper products submitted for qualification under this NEMA standard must have been tested in
accordance with the following standard and produced under contractual follow-up services of the issuer.
Both mechanical and electrical properties must be “Recognized” for use at temperatures up to 220°C. The
following standard is, by reference, incorporated herein:
UL Standard 746B, Polymeric Materials—Long Term Property Evaluations
Copies of the above standard may be purchased by contacting:
Underwriters Laboratories
333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062
www.ul.com
In this publication, reference is made to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard
Test Methods listed below. The most recent revision should normally be used:
ASTM D149 Standard Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage and Dielectric Strength of Solid
Electrica Insulating Materials at Commercial Power Frequencies
ASTM D150 Standard Test Methods for AC Loss Characteristics and Permittivity (Dielectric Constant.)
of Solid Electrical Insulation
ASTM D374 Standard Test Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insulation
ASTM D2275 Standard Test Method for Voltage Endurance of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials
Subjected to Partial Discharges (Corona) on the Surface
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FI 3-2004
Page 2
ASTM D257 Standard Test Methods for DC Resistance or Conductance of Insulating Materials ASTM
D646 Standard Test Method for Grammage of Paper and Paperboard (Mass Per Unit Area)
ASTM D1004 Standard Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of Plastic Film and Sheeting
ASTM D3394 Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Electrical Insulating Board
ASTM D2176 Standard Test Method for Folding Endurance of Paper by the M.I.T Tester ASTM D828
Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Paper and Paperboard Using Constant-
Rate-of-Elongation Apparatus
ASTM D1830 Standard Test Method for Thermal Endurance of Flexible Sheet Materials Used for
Electrical Insulation by the Curved Electrode Method
ASTM D3426 Standard Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage and Dielectric Strength of Solid
Electrical Insulating Materials Using Impulse Waves
Copies of the above standards may be purchased from:
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

100 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
www.astm.org
Other relevant standards include the following International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Documents:
IEC 60216-1 Electrical Insulating Materials—Properties of Thermal Endurance, Part 1: Ageing

Procedures and Evaluation of Test Results
IEC 819-3-3 Specification for Non-Cellulosic Papers for Electrical Purposes, Part 3: Specifications
for Individual Materials, Sheet 3: Unfilled Aramid (Aromatic Polyamide) Papers
Copies of the above standards may be purchased from:
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Central Office

3, rue de Varembé
CH – 1211 Geneva 20
Switzerland
www.iec.ch

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FI 3-2004
Page 3
Section 2
TOLERANCES
2.1 TOLERANCE ON THICKNESS OF ARAMID PAPERS
The tolerances for the thickness of standard types and thicknesses of aramid papers are given in Section 7.
2.2 TOLERANCE ON WIDTH OF ARAMID PAPER TAPES
The tolerance in the width of aramid paper tapes from 3/8 to 1 1/2 in. (9.5 to 38.1 mm) wide shall be ±1/32
in. (0.8 mm).
2.3 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF NARROW ARAMID PAPER ROLLS
The tolerance in the width of rolls of aramid paper from 1.5 in. to 18 in. wide (38.1 mm to 457 mm) shall be
±1/4 in. (6.4 mm).
2.4 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF WIDE ARAMID PAPER ROLLS
The tolerance in the width of rolls of aramid paper from 18 in. to 72 in. wide (1828 mm) shall be ±1/2 in. (12.7
mm).
2.5 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF ARAMID PAPER SHEETS
The tolerances for the length and width of sheets shall be as follows:
2.5.1 In any dimension up to 18 in. (457 mm): ±1/4 in. (6.4 mm).
2.5.2 In any dimension 18 in. (457 mm) or larger: ±1/2 in. (12.7 mm).
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FI 3-2004
Page 4
Section 3
CLASSIFICATION OF ARAMID PAPERS
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3.1 DEFINITIONS OF DEFECTS
Any non-uniformity which reduces the physical or electrical properties of the paper shall be considered a
defect. Such defects are permitted only within the following standards:
3.1.1 Defects Causing Reduced Insulation Strength
Defects which reduce the electrical insulating properties of the paper by more than 10% are permitted only
when they are repaired by one piece of 1 mil (.025 mm) self-adhesive polyimide film tape no larger than 2 in.
by 2 in. (51 mm by 51 mm) in size.
3.1.2 Holes
Holes larger than 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) are not allowed. Holes larger than 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) are permitted only
when they are repaired with self-adhesive polyimide film tape sufficient to assure unreduced electrical
breakdown resistance in or near the hole. Small, high-density translucent fiber particles may appear to be
holes unless carefully examined. These do not reduce the performance of the sheet and are permitted.
Detectable holes greater than or equal to 1/32 in. (0.79 mm) shall be repaired with polyimide tape.
3.1.3 Fractures
A fracture is defined as a break in the surface of the paper. Fractures larger than 1/2 in. (12.7 mm) are not
permitted. Fractures larger than 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) are permitted only when they are permanently repaired
with self-adhesive polyimide film tape sufficient to assure unreduced electrical breakdown resistance.
Detectable fractures greater than or equal to 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) shall be repaired with polyimide tape.
3.1.4 Solid Tactile Defects
Clumps of fibers and similar solid tactile defects over 2 in. (51 mm) in the longest dimension are not
permitted. Such defects over 3/8 in. (9.5 mm), but less than 2 in. in the longest dimension, are permitted;
discolored (brown or black) defects shall be permanently reinforced with self-adhesive polyimide film tape
sufficient in strength and area to assure proper physical integrity of the paper.
3.1.5 Hollow Tactile Defects (Blisters)
Hollow tactile defects (blisters) over 1 in. (25.4 mm) in the longest dimension are not permitted. Blisters over
1/8 in. (3.2 mm) are permitted only when permanently reinforced with self-adhesive polyimide film tape
sufficient to assure unreduced electrical breakdown resistance. Detectable hollow tactile defects (blisters)
greater than or equal to 1/4 in. (6.35 mm) shall be repaired with polyimide tape.
3.1.6 Stains and Discolorations
Stains and discolorations over 2 in. (51 mm) in the longest dimension are not permitted. Such discolored
areas over 1 in. (25.4 mm), but less than 2 in. (51 mm) in the maximum dimension, shall be permanently
repaired with self-adhesive polyimide film tape sufficient in strength and area to assure that the physical
strength of the sheet is not impaired.

FI 3-2004
Page 5
3.1.7 Splices
Splices shall have parallel edges with a maximum gap no wider than 1/8 in. (3.2 mm). Splicing tapes will be
applied to one surface only unless otherwise specified. Splicing materials to be used are:
3.1.7.1 Papers Up to 5 mils (0.13 mm) Thick
Paper up to 5 mils (0.13 mm) thick shall be spliced with self-adhesive polyimide film tape 3 in. (76 mm) wide
to assure acceptable physical, thermal, and electrical integrity in all applications suited to the unspliced
material.
3.1.7.2 Papers Thicker than 5 mils (0.13 mm)
Paper thicker than 5 mils (0.13 mm) shall be spliced with self-adhesive polyester film tape 3 in. (76 mm)
wide to assure unimpaired physical strength of the sheet.
NOTE—Because polyester film deteriorates more rapidly than aramid paper, aramid paper spliced with this tape shall not be used in
equipment unless the splicing tape is separately approved for use in the equipment.
3.2 SAMPLING FOR TESTING
A lot to be sampled for compliance with this standard may consist of one or more rolls of a given type and
thickness of paper, provided that all rolls in the lot came from the same master roll and are so identified by
the producer’s package labels. Samples may be taken from any of the rolls shipped, and those samples
may be aggregated to meet or exceed requirements of the ASTM test procedure insofar as the number of
samples is concerned.
3.2.1 Samples from Rolls
A sample section shall be cut completely across the roll at any point chosen. The required number of
specimens shall be cut from the sample, preferably by die cutting, at intervals across the sheet so as to
represent the full width of the paper.
3.2.2 Samples from Sheets
Samples shall be cut from one or more sheets. The specimens shall be cut, preferably by die cutting, at
intervals across the cross-direction of the sheet, if known, or in both directions of the sheet if the sheet is not
marked for directions.
3.3 METHOD OF CALCULATION
Calculations and reporting must conform to that specified in the relevant test method. See Sections 1 and 4
for recommended test methods.
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FI 3-2004
Page 6
Section 4
METHODS OF MEASUREMENT
4.1 METHODS OF MEASURING THICKNESS
4.1.1 Sheets
Ten measurements of the thickness shall be taken at substantially equal intervals over the width of the
sheet, in accordance with Method C or D given in ASTM D374, using anvil pressure of 23 to 27 psi (1.6 to
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1.9 kPa). Method A or B given in ASTM D374 may also be used, but Method C or D shall constitute the
referee methods. An individual measurement is a single reading, and the average of the ten individual
measurements shall constitute the average thickness of the sheet or plate.
4.1.2 Tapes
A roll shall be selected at random from any lot. Test the product in accordance with Method C or D given in
ASTM D374, modified so that the anvil pressure will be 23 to 27 psi (1.6 to 1.9 kPa). Ten measurements of
the thickness shall be taken at equal intervals along the sample.
Should Method A or B given in ASTM D374 be used, the tape sample shall be folded so that it will form five
layers of tape, each approximately 4 ft (1.22 m) long. Ten measurements of the thickness of the five layers
shall be taken at equal intervals over the entire length of the tape in accordance with Method A or B given in
ASTM D374. An individual measurement is a single reading taken on five layers of tape and divided by 5.
The average of the ten individual measurements shall constitute the average thickness of the tape.
4.2 METHODS OF MEASURING ELECTRIC STRENGTH
4.2.1 Sheets and Tapes
The electric strength of sheets and tapes shall be measured in accordance with ASTM D149, with the
following specifications:
a. Size of electrodes—Two-in. electrodes shall be used. For materials where one dimension is not
great enough to prevent flashover in air (such as tapes), 1/4-in. (6.35-mm) electrodes shall be used
as specified in Section 45 of ASTM D295.
b. Conditioning—Samples should be conditioned to 23oC and 50% R.H. for 24 hr prior to testing.
c. Medium—All electric strength tests specified in this standard must be performed in air. Tests in
other environments are possible if needed, but are not considered in this standard.
d. Electric strength—The average electric strength shall be the average of 10 electric breakdowns
divided by the average thickness of the specimens and shall be reported as V or kV per unit
thickness.
4.3 METHOD OF DETERMINING MOISTURE CONTENT
4.3.1 Purpose
The purpose of this test is to ascertain the percentage of moisture present in aramid paper. Moisture
content, though not specified in this document, is an important property in certain uses.

FI 3-2004
Page 7
4.3.2 Apparatus
The apparatus shall consist of the following:
a. An electrically heated, forced-air oven which will provide a temperature of 150 ± 5oC (302 ±
o
9 F).
b. Dishes of aluminum, or other materials not affected by the test conditions.
c. An analytical balance having an accuracy of at least 0.001 g.
4.3.3 Test Specimen
The specimen(s) to be tested should weigh not less than 5 g.
4.3.4 Procedure
a. Weigh a clean dish to the nearest .001 g (weight C).

b. Weigh the test specimen in the tared dish to the nearest .001 g (weight E).
c. Place the dish with the specimen in the oven at 150 ± 5oC (302 ± 9oF) for not less than 60 min.
d. Cool in a desiccator and weigh the dried sample in the dish (weight H).
4.3.5 Report
The report shall determine the percent moisture, as follows:
Weight E − Weight H
× 100 = % Moisture
Weight E − Weight C
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4.4 METHOD OF TESTING TENSILE PROPERTIES
4.4.1 Conditioning
Samples shall be conditioned to 23oC and 50% R.H. for 24 hr prior to testing before specimens are cut. The
samples to be tested shall be arranged so the surfaces of the paper are fully exposed to the atmosphere.
4.4.2 Sampling
Tensile property measurements may be taken in either the machine direction or the cross direction of the
paper, provided sufficient material is available, and the direction shall be specified in the test report.
Specimens shall be cut in accordance with the applicable ASTM test referred to above in this Standard,
preferably by die cutting, usually 1 in. (25.4 mm) in width and 8 in. (123.2 mm) in length. If non-standard
specimens are tested due to insufficient material, this must be reported with the test results. Samples should
be taken at approximately regular intervals across or along the paper available, so as to represent (as well
as possible) the entire area of the roll or sheet. In many cases, such as tapes, only one direction can be
tested.
4.4.3 Reporting
Tests shall be conducted and results reported in accordance with the applicable ASTM test.

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Page 8
Section 5
TYPES OF ARAMID PAPER
Depending on manufacturing methods, aramid paper products may have markedly different properties.
Because of the wide range of possible properties, only two common types, primarily used for electrical
insulation, are covered herein. They are identified as Type 1 and Type 2 and may be characterized as
follows:
a. Type 1—Has a relatively hard, smooth, non-porous surface. Both electrical and physical properties
are relatively high, and it is used in many of the most important applications.
b. Type 2—Surface is more fibrous, more absorbent, and more flexible than Type 1. Most electrical
and mechanical properties are similar to but slightly lower than Type 1. Tear properties may be
preferred over those of Type 1.
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Section 6
SPECIFICATIONS BY TYPE AND THICKNESS
TYPE 1—NOMINAL THICKNESS

mils 2 3 5 7 10 12 15 20 24 29 30
mm 0.051 0.076 0.13 0.18 0.25 0.30 0.38 0.51 0.61 0.74 0.76
Maximum
Thickness
mils 2.6 3.6 5.8 8.1 11.4 13.3 16.9 22.2 25.6 31.9 33.4
mm 0.066 0.091 0.15 0.21 0.29 0.34 0.43 0.56 0.65 0.81 0.85
MINIMUM VALUES ARE GIVEN FOR THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES:

Thickness
mils 1.9 2.7 4.7 6.5 9.1 11 14 19 23 26 27
mm 0.048 0.069 0.12 0.17 0.23 0.28 0.35 0.47 0.58 0.66 0.69
Basis Weight
oz/sq yard 1.06 1.69 3.19 4.78 6.77 8.50 10.9 15.3 19.6 23.4 23.2
g/m2 35.9 57.3 108 162 230 288 371 519 665 793 787
Density (g/cc) 0.61 0.68 0.76 0.86 0.87 0.90 0.93 0.97 1.05 1.08 0.99
Diel. Strength
V/mil 330 460 538 714 700 720 695 690 655 570 520
kV/mm 13.0 18.1 21.2 28.1 27.6 28.3 27.4 27.2 25.8 22.4 20.5
Tensile Brk Str. (MD)

lb/in. 19 32 66 105 140 180 230 290 375 416 418
N/cm 32 56 115 183 245 314 402 507 655 727 730
Tensile Brk Str. (XD)

lb/in. 7.2 15 30 55 67 95 125 165 240 289 260
N/cm 13 26 52 96 117 166 218 288 419 505 454
Brk Elong.
MD % 5.7 6.9 10.7 13.7 12.0 15.0 14.3 14.0 11.8 13.3 13.3
XD % 4.2 5.0 7.0 9.7 10.0 11.0 11.7 10.3 9.8 8.3 10.7
Tear Str. (MD)

lb 1.7 1.8 4.9 8.2 13 15 21 30 32 36 44
N 7.6 8.0 22 37 57 67 95 133 141 162 194
Tear Str. (XD)

lb 0.60 1.1 2.4 3.6 7.6 7.4 11.6 19.2 26.5 31.7 34.6
N 2.7 4.9 10.7 16.0 33.8 32.9 51.6 85.4 118 141 154

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TYPE 2—NOMINAL THICKNESS

mils 3.4 7 10 12 15
mm 0.086 0.178 0.25 0.30 0.38
Maximum Thickness
mils 4.1 8.3 11.4 14.3 17.4
mm 0.104 0.211 0.29 0.36 0.44
MINIMUM VALUES ARE GIVEN FOR FOLLOWING

PROPERTIES:
Thickness
mils 3.3 6.9 9.4 11.5 14.5
mm 0.084 0.175 0.24 0.29 0.37
Basis Weight
oz/sq yard 2.2 4.9 7.0 8.2 10.7
g/m2 75 162 238 279 361
Density (g/cc) 0.71 0.84 0.86 0.83 0.85
Diel. Strength
V/mil 375 600 615 610 610
kV/mm 14.8 23.6 24.2 24.0 24.0
Tensile Brk Str. (MD)

lb/in. 24 72 102 125 160
N/cm 42 126 178 218 280
Tensile Brk Str. (XD)

lb/in. 10 35 50 67 83
N/cm 2 61 87 117 145
Brk Elong.
MD % 4.8 8.8 8.5 10.0 8.0
XD % 6.0 10.0 11.0 13.0 11.0
Tear Str. (MD)

lb 2.9 9.2 13 17 20
N 13 41 59 73 87
Tear Str. (XD)

lb 1.1 3.0 5.4 7.4 10
N 4.9 13 24 33 43

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Section 7
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES-TYPE TESTS
The following data are average electrical properties measured on aramid papers meeting specifications in
Section 6 of this standard. These properties are not routinely tested and should not be relied upon as
specifications. The tests were performed per ASTM Standards D-149 and D-150 specified in Section 1.
Permittivity measured at 23oC, 50% Relative Humidity

Nominal Thickness
mils 2 3 3.4 5 7 10 12 15 20 24 29 30
mm 0.05 0.08 0.09 0.13 0.18 0.25 0.30 0.38 0.51 0.61 0.74 0.76
Typical Value (60 Hz)

Type I 1.6 1.6 – 2.4 2.7 2.7 2.9 3.2 3.4 3.7 3.7 3.7
Type 2 – – 1.7 – 2.5 2.7 2.8 2.9 – – – –
Dissipation Factor measured at 23oC, 50% Relative Humidity, at 60 Hz

Nominal Thickness
mils 2 3 3.4 5 7 10 12 15 20 24 29 30
mm 0.05 0.08 0.09 0.13 0.18 0.25 0.30 0.38 0.51 0.61 0.74 0.76
Typical Value (60 Hz)

Type I 0.004 0.005 0.006 0.006 0.006 0.007 0.007 0.007 0.007 0.007 0.007
Type 2 0.005 0.008 0.008 0.008 0.009
Volume Resistivity (Types 1 and 2, all thicknesses)

Type 1 Typical value measured at 23oC, 50% Relative Humidity: 1015 ohm-cm
Type 2 Typical value measured at 23oC, 96% Relative Humidity: 1014 ohm-cm

--``````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---


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ANSI/NEMA FI 3

Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NEMA Standard Publication FI 3-2004

Calendered Aramid Papers Used for Electrical Insulation

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Section 3 CLASSIFICATION OF ARAMID PAPERS

Section 4 METHODS OF MEASUREMENT

Section 5 TYPES OF ARAMID PAPER................................................................................................... 8

Section 6 SPECIFICATIONS BY TYPE AND THICKNESS ................................................................... 9

Section 7 ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES-TYPE TESTS ........................................................................ 11

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

Bedford Materials Corp.—Bedford, PA

Vice President, Technical Services Department

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

1.2 DEFINITION OF ARAMID PAPER

1.3.1 Mandatory Standard

UL Standard 746B, Polymeric Materials—Long Term Property Evaluations

Copies of the above standard may be purchased by contacting:

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

Copies of the above standards may be purchased from:

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

IEC 60216-1 Electrical Insulating Materials—Properties of Thermal Endurance, Part 1: Ageing

Copies of the above standards may be purchased from:

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Central Office

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

Copyright National Electrical Manufacturers Association

2.1 TOLERANCE ON THICKNESS OF ARAMID PAPERS

2.2 TOLERANCE ON WIDTH OF ARAMID PAPER TAPES

2.3 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF NARROW ARAMID PAPER ROLLS

2.4 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF WIDE ARAMID PAPER ROLLS

2.5 TOLERANCES FOR DIMENSIONS OF ARAMID PAPER SHEETS

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

3.1 DEFINITIONS OF DEFECTS

3.1.1 Defects Causing Reduced Insulation Strength

3.1.4 Solid Tactile Defects

3.1.5 Hollow Tactile Defects (Blisters)

3.1.6 Stains and Discolorations

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

3.1.7.1 Papers Up to 5 mils (0.13 mm) Thick

3.1.7.2 Papers Thicker than 5 mils (0.13 mm)

3.2 SAMPLING FOR TESTING

3.2.1 Samples from Rolls

3.2.2 Samples from Sheets

3.3 METHOD OF CALCULATION

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

4.1 METHODS OF MEASURING THICKNESS

4.2 METHODS OF MEASURING ELECTRIC STRENGTH

4.2.1 Sheets and Tapes

4.3 METHOD OF DETERMINING MOISTURE CONTENT

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

The apparatus shall consist of the following:

4.3.3 Test Specimen

The specimen(s) to be tested should weigh not less than 5 g.

a. Weigh a clean dish to the nearest .001 g (weight C).

The report shall determine the percent moisture, as follows:

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

© Copyright 2004 by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

TYPE 1—NOMINAL THICKNESS

MINIMUM VALUES ARE GIVEN FOR THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES:

Tensile Brk Str. (MD)